Netflix Announces Release Date for Documentary About the Life and Career of the Legend, Joni Mitchell
Netflix has officially announced the release date for its long-awaited documentary chronicling the life, artistry, and enduring legacy of music legend Joni Mitchell. Titled “Both Sides Now: The Joni Mitchell Story,” the documentary will premiere globally on September 20, 2025, marking a significant moment for fans who’ve followed her groundbreaking journey through six decades of music, poetry, and cultural influence.
The streaming platform issued a press statement earlier today, saying, “We’re glad to announce that we’re done with production, and it’ll be released on September 20th.” The statement continued with Netflix describing the project as “a heartfelt, cinematic tribute to one of the most unique voices in music history.” The documentary has been in development for over two years and promises a deeply personal, artistic portrait of the legendary Canadian singer-songwriter.
Directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Liz Garbus, known for What Happened, Miss Simone? and Becoming Cousteau, the film features a blend of archival footage, never-before-seen photographs, and rare audio recordings spanning Mitchell’s entire career. From her folk roots in the cafes of Toronto to her jazz explorations and environmental activism, the documentary captures the full spectrum of her evolution.
“Joni’s music has been the soundtrack to so many lives,” said Garbus in an early interview. “But what drew me to this project was her spirit — the way she defied expectations at every turn. This film is about the artist, but also about the woman who kept reinventing herself, no matter the cost.”
The documentary includes exclusive interviews with Joni Mitchell herself, recorded over the past year in her California home. Reflecting on her life and legacy, she shares insights into her songwriting process, her struggles with fame, and the personal battles she’s faced, including her near-fatal brain aneurysm in 2015. “There were moments I didn’t think I’d sing again,” Mitchell says in the trailer, her voice quiet but steady. “But the music was always waiting for me.”
In addition to Mitchell’s own reflections, the film features commentary from artists deeply influenced by her work, including Brandi Carlile, Elton John, Norah Jones, and Taylor Swift. “Joni didn’t just write songs,” Swift says in the film. “She wrote truths that people didn’t know how to say out loud.” Their contributions underscore just how deeply her artistry has permeated the fabric of modern music.
A particularly emotional segment in the film revisits her return to the stage at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival — her first full performance in over two decades. Footage from that historic appearance, paired with behind-the-scenes moments and interviews with her collaborators, forms a powerful narrative arc of resilience and revival.
Netflix’s Head of Documentaries, Teresa Chung, expressed excitement about the upcoming release. “This isn’t just a music documentary,” she said. “It’s a celebration of a cultural force. Joni’s story is one of radical creativity, independence, and soul — and we’re honored to bring it to a global audience.”
The soundtrack for the documentary will include remastered versions of Mitchell’s most iconic songs, from A Case of You to Coyote, as well as unreleased demos and live performances. There are also plans for a limited vinyl pressing of the soundtrack to coincide with the film’s release, available exclusively through select retailers and Mitchell’s official website.
Both Sides Now: The Joni Mitchell Story is poised to be one of the most talked-about documentaries of the year, offering a rare and poetic glimpse into the mind and soul of a true original. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, this film will serve as both a tribute and an invitation — a chance to walk through the decades with Joni Mitchell, guided by her own voice.
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